Melee At South Paulding High Began Over A Vape, Sheriff Says

DALLAS, GA — A melee ensued after a "scuffle" between a deputy and a child during a middle-school dance held Saturday at South Paulding High School, Paulding County Sheriff Ashley Henson said.

The dance was organized by a local booster club and was held for Scoggins, South Paulding and Austin middle schools, Henson said.

Officers were called to the scene after reports of a gun and shooting on campus; however, the sheriff said that narrative was false.

Henson said four deputies, along with parent chaperones, were offering security at the dance when a group of kids started being disruptive. Their ages are unknown.

When deputies made contact with the kids, Henson said a tussle began between a deputy and a kid who had taken off running with others.

Adults were able to tackle the other kids who ran, and during the melee, Henson said someone yelled "gun."

A gun was not found on scene, and no one was injured, Henson said. He added the incident began because one of the kids put a vape into another kid's hoodie.

"We do believe this is all over a vape," Henson said, adding there were "a lot of hurt feelings."

He asked anyone with tips to call (770) 443-3047 or share the tip via the Paulding Sheriff mobile app.